Taichung 'Dan' group collapses, leaders flee to China amid NT$5 billion fraud allegations

A significant financial scandal has emerged in Taichung, Taiwan, with the collapse of the 'Dan' group, allegedly involving fraud and the disappearance of its leaders. The group, which operated businesses including the popular 'Dan Shui Gun Hot Pot' restaurant and the 'Dan Qu Tao Travel Agency,' reportedly defrauded nearly 500 individuals, with total losses estimated to be as high as NT$5 billion (approximately US$155 million).

The leaders, identified as a husband and wife surnamed Huang and Hung, are suspected of fleeing to China after suffering investment losses. The 'Dan' group also included a credit investigation company, 'Dan Daan Jing,' and an art company, 'Dan Wu Dui Jue.' The couple built their reputation through financing and lending, becoming active in local community groups and organizing travel tours through their agency.

Many victims, including members of a local Lions Club, had invested their life savings with the group, lured by promises of fixed returns. The club, with about 60 members, saw several individuals lose over NT$100 million collectively. The betrayal has deeply affected the members, who are involved in charity work, leading to a crisis where the club nearly disbanded before a local entrepreneur stepped in to become the new president.

Adding a layer of irony, Hung had previously posted on Facebook expressing gratitude for being entrusted with organizing the Lions Club's travel itinerary, writing, "One call for family, a lifetime for family." This statement now rings hollow as she and her husband have vanished, leaving a trail of financial devastation and shattered trust in the community.

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One call for family, a lifetime for family.